We’re now in Week 11 of COVID-19 shutdown and two things have been made abundantly clear:
(1) change is here to stay
(2) change is constant
To weather this storm, we must adapt, be resilient, and modify our expectations.
Change Means Learning New Things
- Learn how to use new video conferencing platforms
- Learn the kid’s school software
- Learn to work from home
- Learn what’s expected as you patiently wait in line to get groceries
- Don’t wear a mask. Wear a mask
- Socially distance. Physically distance
- Don’t touch your face. Wash your hands
- Get ready there is going to be a second wave. And so on, and so on
The Art of Managing Change
If you are feeling overwhelmed by constantly changing messages, you are not alone. Read on for some practical, down to earth suggestions for coping with change.
- Breathe. Simple, but we often forget. When we are under stress of any kind our bodies kick into fight, flight or freeze mode. Breathe. Stop and take a moment. Focus on your breathing. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly. And repeat.
- Slow down. You don’t need to respond to every change instantly. Everything might feel like an emergency, but that’s rarely the case. Try to take a more thoughtful approach to the change and what it means to you and your family.
- Develop a plan. If you feel the need, develop an alternate plan as well. Access your resources. Pick up the phone, send an email, set up a video conference. Talk to family and friends. Talk to the professionals in your life to get more advice. Remember you are the expert on your life and your family.
- Be kind to yourself as you make changes. Repeat after me, “It will be okay. I can do this. We can do this.”
- Remember that in some instances you have a choice. A choice to change or not. Or a choice to partially change. Think through the consequences of decisions before you act.
- Positive self-talk is important. If you tell yourself that you can’t cope, then chances are you won’t.
- Try to practice gratitude in the midst of all the change. What are you grateful for this minute?
- Realize that there are stages of coping with change which include shock, disorientation, anger, and acceptance. It takes time to move through these changes.
- Practice being in the moment. You can only think about one thing at a time. Take a break from trying to solve the problem. Do something different. The solution will come.
- In the midst of all of these changes, please practice self-care. Take time for yourself. Do something fun. Do nothing if you have been too busy.
If you are having difficulty coping with all of the recent changes, please connect with me, Annette Poechman. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Counsellor with a wealth of experience. Together we can get through this. Book your appointment today.
Listening. Guiding. Caring.